Consumer Safety Complaints
Search 2,215,138 safety complaints filed by vehicle owners with NHTSA — including 138,663 crashes, 56,255 fires, and 8,561 deaths.
What is a NHTSA consumer complaint?
A consumer complaint is a free-form report filed by a vehicle owner directly to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describing a safety concern about their vehicle. NHTSA collects these reports through its Vehicle Owner Defect Report (VOQ) system and publishes them publicly. Each complaint includes the affected component, the date and circumstances of the incident, whether the failure caused a crash or fire, and any reported injuries or deaths. The owner's full narrative description is included verbatim — NHTSA does not edit or moderate the descriptions.
The database below contains over 2,215,138 individual complaints. NHTSA's investigators monitor it for clusters of similar reports — when enough owners describe the same failure mode on the same vehicle, NHTSA may open a Preliminary Evaluation that can lead to a recall. Many of the largest recalls in U.S. history, including the Takata airbag recall and the Hyundai/Kia engine fire recalls, started as patterns visible in this complaint database years before they became formal recalls.
How to interpret what you read
A few principles for reading consumer complaints usefully:
- One complaint is anecdote; a hundred similar complaints is data. NHTSA does not investigate the truthfulness of any individual report — that's the job of the Office of Defects Investigation, which looks at the full pattern. When evaluating a vehicle, look for whether multiple owners describe the same chain of events.
- Crash, fire, injury, and death flags are owner-set. They are not verified by NHTSA. They are still useful as a filter, because owners who tick those boxes are typically reporting more serious incidents than those who don't.
- Component categories are NHTSA-assigned, not owner-assigned. NHTSA standardizes the component field so that complaints can be aggregated. The owner narrative often goes into more detail than the component category captures.
- Complaint volume scales with sales volume. A best-selling model will accumulate more raw complaints than a niche model even at the same defect rate. To compare across vehicles, look at complaints per 100,000 units sold, not raw counts.
If you've experienced a defect
File a complaint. NHTSA's investigators rely on this database to detect emerging defects, and useful complaints — specific, concrete, with dates and mileage and clear descriptions of what happened — feed directly into the agency's pattern detection. The form takes about 10 minutes and is at nhtsa.gov/recalls under "Report a Safety Problem." Your complaint becomes part of the same public record that this page is built from. Owners filing detailed VOQs are how recalls get triggered.
Read more from our blog
Showing 60,583 complaints for KIA
Incident date: Nov 22, 2024
Only when it rains the forward collision warning light comes on. The last time it came on the engine light also came on with code P01280. Diagnostic at Toyota said the Thermostat needs to be replaced. I decided to look into this as the thermostat should not be bad at 54500 miles. Weeks later and the neither light has come on again.
Incident date: Oct 21, 2024
so all the sudden my air bag light came on and my whole steering wheel don't work.. none of the buttons nor the cruse control and air bag light is on . Not sure why this happened but I feel very unsafe with my children in the car due to there's been a lot of crazy ppl out that don't pay attention when driving .
Incident date: Apr 14, 2025
I dropped off my 2021 Kia Soul at the dealership where I purchased it to address a nationwide recall, which states: “The piston oil ring(s) may have been incorrectly manufactured, potentially damaging the engine cylinder wall. This can lead to increased oil consumption, abnormal engine noises, engine seizure, and possible fire from oil leaking onto hot exhaust components. Loss of drive power and... Read more
Incident date: Apr 14, 2025
On 3.22.2025 the rear view camera did not display; either a black screen with text "Check surroundings for your safety," a green screen reading "No camera signa received. Please try again later," or distorted images appeared. Camera was replaced under warranty on 4.14.2025; I learned from Crossroads Hyundai that other vehicles had a recall in effect. Images and work order are included.
Incident date: Apr 14, 2025
The contact’s mother-in-law owns a 2013 Ford Fusion. The contacts mother-in-law received notification of an unknown recall in 2016. The remedy included replacing the bolts and applying a wax sealer to the bolts. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while receiving maintenance at an independent mechanic, the mechanic became aware that the electronic power steering rack bolts were fra... Read more
Incident date: Sep 14, 2020
The car started with a rough idle and a check engine light. It was also louder than normal. Driving down the main road approaching a light on the brakes. the light turned green and when I went to hit the gas the car died in the middle of the road. Car would not restart. OBD code P0016 The car is currently at Cadillac service
Incident date: Sep 14, 2020
Transmission jerking violently while driving at low RPM 1000-1500 RPM. Occurs daily. Shudder and vibration as vehicle is slowed approaching stops. Effect and feeling is unsettling to driver and passengers. Can be recreated but is also intermittent at times. Dealer has avoided fixing as it is not 100% consistent. Asking me to drive until failure which is unsafe and could lead to accident or s... Read more
Incident date: Mar 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2015 Ford Explorer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V031000 (STRUCTURE); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated... Read more
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The car caught on fire while I was driving. No warning lights came on and the car didn't show it was running hot. I tried to engage the brakes, and they malfunctioned. I coasted the car to the side of the highway, where the fire and smoke plumed from under the car. I immediately exited the car and ran. As I was running from the car the grass was on fire. The car was totally destroyed by fire. ... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Ford Taurus. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine overheated. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. The contact pulled over to the side of the road, added coolant to the vehicle, and allowed the engine to cool down. The vehicle was taken to a Walmart, where the contact was informed that ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
Ongoing problem with Subaru. Spontaneous windshield crack. 74 degrees, parked in shade, no chips. Came out and has the crack completely across windshield just above drivers eyeline. This is has happened to many Subaru owners and Subaru does nothing. Now I want Safelite to do repair, but Subaru will not honor any work involving eyesight navigation unless it is Subaru glass,
Incident date: Mar 8, 2025
I've had issues with my air conditioner not working properly and now making a loud humming sound. Also my car is very sluggish and my motor is very loud when the car is running. Sometimes it doesn't want to shift exactly when it should it takes longer and I have to take my foot off the gas to let it shift. My car keeps running out of oil every time before the designated oil change time and mileage... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2025
While driving on the interstate, suddenly got 6 different ‘warning’ messages on the dashboard. Most of them involved the brakes. Emergency brake malfunction, brake hold malfunction, forward collision malfunction, adaptive cruise control malfunction, brake system malfunction (use of brakes may be reduced), and road departure mitigation malfunction.
Incident date: Feb 13, 2025
On [XXX] at approximately [XXX], my [XXX] Daughter was using my car to go to work. When she called us and informed my husband that the car did not start. At that point he asked to video call him so that he can visually see what was going on. She was directed to turn on the car again at and that point, the car started then smoke was noticed from coming out of the hood. My daughter managed to ope... Read more
Fire
Incident date: Apr 3, 2025
I've had issues with my air conditioner not working properly and now making a loud humming sound. Also my car is very sluggish and my motor is very loud when the car is running. Sometimes it doesn't want to shift exactly when it should it takes longer and I have to take my foot off the gas to let it shift. My car keeps running out of oil every time before the designated oil change time and mileage... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2025
In late January 2025 I took my Ioniq 5 (an EV) to the dealer for service under a recall. The service called for a software update in regard to the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). The next time i attempted to charge the car charging failed. The dealer subsequently determined that the ICCU had failed. The car has been in the shop for two months and counting, as Hyundai is unable to supply t... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2025
In late January 2025 I took my Ioniq 5 (an EV) to the dealer for service under a recall. The service called for a software update in regard to the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU). The next time i attempted to charge the car charging failed. The dealer subsequently determined that the ICCU had failed. The car has been in the shop for two months and counting, as Hyundai is unable to supply t... Read more
Incident date: Jun 26, 2024
shortly after purchasing the car (06/2024) while driving (regardless of the weather or temperature, whether it’s day, night, hot, cold, etc) all of my dash warning lights come on, complete ADAS system malfunction. it shows a code for my front camera through the kia connect app and says it’s chasis related. i have taken my car in multiple times for this and i still leave with it the same day ho... Read more
Incident date: Jun 26, 2024
Without any prior symptoms or warnings when I was driving on the highway I felt the car losing power and the car started to slow down in the middle of the road and then check engine light came on when i was on my way to pull over. When I stopped, I felt a strong vibration throughout the car, as if it was about to shut down. Then it actually stopped. I tried once to start it, but failed. I towed th... Read more
Incident date: Jun 26, 2024
The vehicle was handed off to the dealer for a routine oil change and transmission flush. The dealer stated over the phone that during the engine's oil draining process, the tech noticed metal particulates in the oil. The oil was allowed to completely drain until no drips fell from the drain plug. The tech then filled the engine with new oil to the correct level. After the trans flush was complete... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2024
As I'm turning at curve the steering locks up and sticks and I have to use a both hands to stay in my lane. You can easily hit a car turning the curve next to you when the steering locks up. I took it to dealer and they knew about having these issues from other CR-V and they said it's the steering rack. pinion. No lights or warning turn on when this happens. Other honda owners on reddit were hav... Read more
Incident date: May 22, 2024
I have a 2023 Mach e premium on lease.
I drive using single pedal mode.
Three days ago I pulled into a parking spot in front of a restaurant in a plaza. When I took my foot off the accelerator the car came to a complete stop (as it should have ) … about a half a second later, before I could put the transmission into park, the vehicle went full throttle and jolted forward up over the cur... Read more
Crash
Incident date: Apr 3, 2025
My car has had an exterior lighting problem related to a bad FRM. This is causing my lights not to work. After seeking help, I saw that there was an actual recall on the FRM and I decided to take my car to International Mini dealership in Wisconsin. Once there, they proceeded to only fix the leak on sunroof. I then went back and explained that the leak had caused actual damage to the FRM and conne... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2025
Ford refuses / is unable to resolve Safety Recall 23S65/23V896. Ford has stated solution will be available by 1st quarter 2025. It is now April 12, 2025 and Ford reports no solution date. Recall 23S65/23V896 is a Safety recall. Ford's description: Safety Risk This may initially result in a clicking noise as the bolt becomes loose and a rattle noise from the wheel cap if the bolt breaks. Vehi... Read more
Incident date: Apr 12, 2025
Got into my car started it and the back window burst I might add it was not to cold out but the rear window wiper was on due to the rain sensor
1 injured
Incident date: Apr 2, 2025
See attached document for complaint.
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 RAM 1500. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at 55 MPH, he became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly, requiring increased effort to maneuver the steering wheel. The service power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the steering column. The... Read more
Incident date: Mar 30, 2025
The electrical system and the car became undrivable while driving as it lost power
Incident date: Mar 30, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power in the middle of the roadway. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the 12-volt battery. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. After investigating the fai... Read more
Incident date: Feb 3, 2025
The infotainment system keeps resetting with screen going black and restarting. This is distracting and I lose data such as directions if I am using navigation. This could lead to driver distraction and risk of accidents. I think that this is a firmware issue and UConnect should provide a fix.
Incident date: Apr 1, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission valve body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The ... Read more
Incident date: Feb 22, 2025
I purchased a 2019 Hyundai Sonata SE in December 2024. Within one month, the vehicle consumed 3.5 quarts of oil out of a 5-quart capacity. After researching the issue, I discovered that this is a known engine defect covered under Hyundai Technical Service Bulletin 23-EM-008H, which relates to excessive oil consumption. This condition can lead to engine failure, posing a significant safety risk if ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 8, 2025
My 2015 Kia Optima Hybrid poses a serious safety risk. While driving at highway speeds, the car has randomly shut off multiple times. A "Check Hybrid System" or hybrid battery warning appears on the dashboard, and the vehicle either loses power entirely or switches to electric-only mode and coasts to a stop. This happens without warning, putting my life and the lives of others at risk. I already ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 8, 2025
I am filing a complaint regarding a brake vacuum pump failure in my 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The failure of the vacuum pump led to a complete loss of brake assist, making the brake pedal significantly harder to press. This issue directly resulted in a complete loss of braking ability, which posed a serious safety risk while driving. The vacuum pump in these models is camshaft driven, and its failur... Read more
Incident date: Apr 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2011 Ford Edge. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. There was an abnormally loud cranking sound upon starting the vehicle. While driving at highway speeds, there was a steady abnormal sound detected. The engine, traction control, low tire pressure, fuel, and oil warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, tires were inflate... Read more
Incident date: Apr 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Toyota Corolla. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, or upon approaching a stop, the engine sounded very weak, almost as if the vehicle would shut off. The contact stated that the vehicle had shut off previously while driving through a drive thru. The vehicle was restarted, and the check engine warning light illuminated while driving. The contact also s... Read more
Incident date: Apr 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2022 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V896000 (POWER TRAIN); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated ... Read more
Incident date: Apr 2, 2025
Ptu transmission went out at 83000 miles I’ve been fighting to get it fixed
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
There is apparently a known issue on the WT "Work Truck" trim of the Silverado EV trucks where the factory wiring harness was assembled incorrectly. This prevents the truck from knowing when the rear doors are open vs closed. If only one (or even both) rear doors are open, all the doors may automatically lock (depending on auto-locking settings), potentially locking the driver out of the vehicle. ... Read more
KIA
SPORTAGE HYBRID
(2023) — ENGINE
Apr 9, 2025
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
I've gotten my car fixed multiple times and nothing has worked. My car is leaking coolant severely it overheats constantly I get the red and the yellow message. My heater is self stopped working and my car on the freeway has stopped from going 75 to 80 miles dropping all the way to 20 miles.
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
I am writing to bring to your attention a concerning issue regarding the instrument panel of the 2016-2020 Kia Sorento. My car - 2017 Kia Sorento. In approx. 2021, I noticed a small 2 cm crack resembling a razor blade cut on my instrument panel (Part Number: 84710-C5000WK, also 84710-C6000WK and 84710-C6001WK). At the time, I did not find this defect alarming as it was minor and located far from... Read more
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The plastic clips that hold the keypad on the driver’s side door to the truck have failed allowing access to the trucks wiring and potentially gaining entry to the truck. Concerned with break-ins
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sedona. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle failed to respond. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact had experienced the vehicle rolling while attempting to park the vehicle. On another occasion, while the contact was attempting to park the vehicle on an incline, the contact depress... Read more
Incident date: Apr 4, 2025
Excess Oil consumption cause the engine to die and the car to stall out in the middle of the road. Engine needs completely replaced.
Incident date: Apr 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2015 BMW 328I. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the... Read more
Incident date: Oct 10, 2023
My car started to not charge for more than 10mn at a time. It also showed an error message about the electrical system. I have dropped off my car at the dealership on march 3rd. No information since
Incident date: Aug 14, 2024
purchased 6-22-24 fire happened 8-14-24 at approximately 11pm, with approximately 2691 miles, fire started in engine compartment, car burned to ground, nothing left, approximately 2691 miles on vehicle. i was lucky to get out alive, i had to kick the doors open.
Fire
Incident date: Aug 14, 2024
Passenger rear seat (middle row) belt comes unlatched on its own while the vehicle is being operated. The latch is currently securing a [XXX] boy (approx. [XXX]) for most of the time the seat belt is latched. The seat belt in most cases remains latched however it is slowly becoming more progressive. The left rear passenger seat (middle row) is currently latched securing a car seat with no issues p... Read more
Incident date: Aug 14, 2024
The contact owns a 2019 Honda Civic SI. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V858000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start on the initial startup intermittently. The conta... Read more
Incident date: Feb 1, 2025
Upon cold start, the engine makes a loud knocking or rattling noise for several seconds, most noticeable after the vehicle has been sitting overnight. The noise seems to be coming from the timing area of the engine and has been identified by multiple mechanics as likely due to a faulty VTC (Variable Timing Control) actuator. This issue happens consistently during cold starts, then disappears once ... Read more